Impact of different methods to activate the pediatric mode in automated external defibrillators by laypersons – A randomized controlled simulation study

INTRODUCTION: Defibrillation with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for smaller children with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) should be performed using a pediatric mode. This study aims to investigate the easiest and fastest way to activate the pediatric mode on AEDs for pediatric OHCA. METHODS: This randomized, controlled simulation study recruited 90 adult laypersons. Laypersons were randomized to use one of three AEDs with different methods to activate the pediatric mode: a Lifepak CR-T Trainer requiring switch of electrodes, a Phillips Heartstart FR3 Trainer with a “pediatric key”, or a CU Medical IPAD SP1 Trainer with a pediatric button. Laypersons were asked to use an AED on a pediatric manikin and informed that activation of a pediatric mode was recommended. RESULTS: Activation of the pediatric mode was achieved by 0/30 (0%) participants when switching electrodes (Lifepak CRT), 2/30 (7%) participants when using a key (Phillips FR3) and 18/30 (64%) participants when pushing a button (CU Medical SP1) (p < 0.001). The median (interquartile range) time to first shock among those who activated the pediatric mode were 102 (95–107) in the CU Medical SP1 group and 78 (78–78) in the Phillips FR3 group (p = 0.21). Most participants used the anterior-lateral position for electrodes. CONCLUSION: Laypersons’ ability to activate the pediatric mode on AEDs and correctly attach the electrodes was generally poor. More participants were able to activate the pediatric mode by pushing a button when compared to using a key or switching electrodes. Use of the Phillips FR3 AED was associated with faster shock delivery.